Glossary
Locked nucleic acid (LNA)
A modified nucleotide with a bridge that locks the sugar into a high affinity shape.
A locked nucleic acid contains an extra bridge that constrains the sugar ring into an ideal conformation for base pairing. This gives very high binding affinity, so shorter oligos can still bind their target tightly.
LNA is powerful but is used sparingly, since excessive LNA content can raise the risk of toxicity.
Related terms
Design with these concepts on Discovery AI
Our platform puts the chemistry behind these terms to work, from candidate design to synthesis ready oligo.
One Platform. Three Connected Pillars.